Panera Bread Opening Benefits St. Mary’s Kids

Portion of day’s sales from the Bayside Bakery-Cafe will Help Support St. Mary’s Programs and Services

Panera Bread has found a new home – right here in the heart of Bayside in the Bay Terrace Shopping Center on Bell Boulevard.

But, what makes its grand opening so special is that a portion of all sales from Monday, September 14th will be donated to help support the efforts of St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children in Bayside. St. Mary’s provides intensive rehabilitation, specialized care and innovative treatments that help more than 4,000 young patients daily through a network of inpatient, home care and community-based programs.

The crowds began to pour in early Monday morning for their usual breakfast delights and were happy to know their contributions would go towards a good cause.

Joining the bread breaking ceremony to celebrate the auspicious day was Queens City Councilman for the 19th district Tony Avella, and NY State Senator for the 16th district, Toby Ann Stavisky.

“Community is at the heart of Panera Bread,” says Greg George, Vice President of Operations for the Queens, Long Island and Staten Island bakery-cafes. “Panera believes strongly in giving back to the community and helping to support St. Mary’s good work on behalf of special needs children is one way we are getting involved,” he says. “We’re happy to offer St. Mary’s crucial funds that can help improve the health and quality of life for children who require specialized care.”

The new and trendy restaurant will be serving a hearty breakfast, lunch, and dinner along with your choice of beverages, but most of all, they will be serving it up for St. Mary’s kids.